BEATRICE, Neb. - In an effort to strengthen ties to the community, a southeast Nebraska police department is set to participate in National Night Out next week. 

Office Courtney Brauch and the Beatrice Police Department will be at Charles Park on Tuesday, to build relationships and create ties within the community.

"National Night Out is next Tuesday, Aug. 5, from 4:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. at Charles Park," Brauch said. "It's an opportunity for the Beatrice Police Department to bridge the gap between us and our communities."

BPD will have informational booths set up throughout the evening... The event also features a dunk tank, for the community to dunk a police officer, and food will be donated by Security First Bank... Admission is free.

Brauch says events that build relationships with communities are crucial for departments like BPD.

"We show up to a call, we come in contact with someone we met at one of these events or someone we met at the schools, if we come in contact with someone we met on the front end, it's that much more beneficial for everyone's safety."